Yesterday was Day 1 of World MasterCard Fashion Week in Toronto, where I attended two of the most highly-anticipated shows of the week – Holt Renfrew Hot at 175 and Pink TartanSpring 2013.

I arrived nice and early to check out backstage hair and makeup prep, and to have a quick chat with Grace Lee, Maybelline Canada’s lead makeup artist. For the Holt Renfrew show, Grace created a polished “it-girl” look, classic and wearable, while Jorge Joao, Redken’s lead stylist, chose loose waves with a side part to match.

Instead of showing Spring 2013 arrivals, Holt Renfrew presented a special edition runway celebrating the best of what’s in store and on-trend now, showcasing brands like Jeremy Laing, Smythe, Carven, Kenzo, MSGM, and even that now almost iconic Tom Ford gown that Gwyneth Paltrow wore to The Oscars. I loved the styling and the selection, which reminded me of all those fall pieces that I am still craving this season.

Next up was Pink Tartan. Rocking her signature pink locks, model Charlotte Free opened the show in a midriff-baring bustier/full skirt combo. Head designer Kimberley Newport-Mimran shared that she chooses her models for their vibrant personalities, and with pink hair to match, Free was a perfect choice for Pink Tartan’s spring show.

The collection itself featured delicate lace frocks, subtle metallics, pastel-coloured trapeze coats (Newport-Mimran’s favourite), brocade separates, full skirts, perforated leather, and Aldo Rise x Pink Tartan collaboration shoes (classic pumps with geometric heels). It was full of feminine, oh-so-pretty retro-inspired pieces, and despite the fact that I’m not a girlie girl, I loved it all. Will have to check out this collection once it becomes available at the flagship location in Yorkville in a few months.

Overall, Day 1 was a blast! I got to see a lot of great fashion, hung out with fellow Stylicity bloggers Anita Clarke, Gloria Chik, and Crystal Gibson, visited backstage with Maybelline and Redken, and had a quick chat with Kimberley Newport-Mimran – all in a day’s work. Stay tuned for more World MasterCard Fashion Week coverage, as I attend some of my favourite shows later this week.

There’s a reason why Joe Fresh shows overflow season after season after season…great designs that you could actually afford? Who wouldn’t want to have a sneak peek? Last night, I was lucky enough to join Maybelline Canada and Redken for a backstage preview of Joe Fresh Fall 2012 hair and makeup prep, inspired by the swinging 60’s (beauty post coming soon), complete with teased ponytails, and fresh faces.

The collection, also inspired by the 60’s, was a mixed bag of colorful separates that we are so used to seeing from Joe Fresh, great knits and outerwear, with houndstooth and watercolour prints mixed in. There were faux fur accents, and orange-soled heels. It was fun, fresh, and wearable. And I will surely be stalking this collection at my nearest store come fall.

What do you think of Joe FreshFall 2012 collection? Do you have a favorite look? Share in the comments.

Greta Constantine shows are always a highlight of Rogue Fashion Week in Toronto. Always consistently good, interesting, wearable…and covetable. And this season was no exception.

Greta ConstantineFall 2012 sci-fi-inspired collection had it all: signature draping, to-die-for evening gowns, gorgeous chunky knits, colorful separates, and a bit of sparkle, all presented as a cohesive collection for an urban woman on the go. One that runs errands in style, before attending star-studded soirees draped in (what else?)Greta.

The duo’s favorite Canadian showstopper (and ours too) – Tara Gill opened the show, expertly strutting her stuff at the Arcadian Loft, while the star-studded front row took in the collection.

What do you think of Kirk Pickersgill and Stephen Wong’s designs for fall? Which pieces make your fave list? Share in the comments.

Remember when I was all like “George Antonopoulos is a creative genius, and I want to have his babies!!!”? No? I guess that was all in my head, then. But seriously, you guys. Spring 2012 lookbook for George’s OBJECT for Danier Leather Collection landed in my inbox today, and I simply cannot contain my excitement! As expected, it’s gorgeous! Having seen most of the pieces at last year’s preview, I am still awed by the collection, modeled by the Canadian stunner Tara Gill. The beautiful cuts, vivid hues, and perfect styling – all combined, make for a pretty lethal combo – making my wallet weep with anticipation of what’s to come (complete and total credit card annihilation).

So far I’m calling dibs on blue leather pants, pink leather skirt, brown leather shorts, grey suede tank, and yellow (or pink) suede dress. What about you guys? Does this lookbook make you more excited about the upcoming spring season? Are you dying to get your paws on some of the pieces from George’s second collection with Danier? Share the excitement in the comments!

WHAT I WORE

WHO IS NELIA?

Nelia Belkova is a Toronto-based fashion and lifestyle blogger by night and a financial analyst by day. She loves to travel, read gossip sites, eat sweets, and cuddle up to her husband and her cat on the couch. Read More…